Los Angeles Lakers Land 3-Point Shooter in Trade Proposal

Lakers Seek 3-Point Shooting Upgrade

The Los Angeles Lakers are on the hunt for a 3-point shooter to complement their lineup, particularly off the bench. With Luka Doncic at the helm, the Lakers need players who can stretch the defense and create space for their star player to operate.

What's the Lakers' Current Situation?

The Lakers have lost Rui Hachimura, the greatest 3-point shooter by percentage in NBA history, and sharpshooter Luke Kennard. However, they have signed free agents Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, and Sandro Mamukelashvili, who are expected to log major minutes next season.

Why Buddy Hield is an Ideal Fit

Buddy Hield, a 3-point sniper, could be an excellent addition to the Lakers' roster. At his best, Hield was a 20-point-per-game scorer who could catch fire from the 3-point line within a blink of an eye. Although he is no longer a high-caliber scorer, he can still knock down 3s, especially if he gets one of those Luka Magic passes right into the pocket.

Proposed Trade

A proposed trade that brings Hield to the Lakers involves sending Buddy Hield, Will Richard, and a 2033 second-round pick (via GSW) to the Lakers. In return, the Hawks receive a 2033 second-round pick (via LAL), while the Warriors get Dalton Knecht and Bronny James.

Is Hield a Low-Risk Buy for L.A.?

Considering the Hawks need to trim their roster to be in league compliance, they'd likely be happy to move on from Hield's nearly $20 million in salary over the next two seasons, especially if doing so brings back a draft pick. For the Lakers, Hield still has two more seasons left on a four-year deal, and he will turn 34 later this year. That may be the only thing that makes Hield potentially unattractive for L.A.

What Comes Next?

If the Lakers can average two or three 3-pointers per game from Hield, he would prove a worthy investment. The Lakers' recent form has been poor, with a 0-5 record in their last five games, including a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026. However, with Hield on board, they may be able to turn their season around and make a push for the playoffs.